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The officially sanctioned Samsung microSD Express Card for Nintendo Switch 2 is available again at various retailers, such as Best Buy and Target. The Switch 2 solely supports Express cards, and being a newer technology, there are limited choices in stores currently—and most are out of stock. Samsung’s 256GB themed card is priced at $60 and launches alongside the Switch 2 on June 5. Besides this card, another option that is presently available is SanDisk’s microSD Express Card in 128GB ($50) and 256GB ($72) variants.
Where to preorder Samsung’s microSD Express Card for Switch 2 (Updated: May 16)
The Nintendo Switch 2 delivers a significant enhancement in terms of storage capacity. The 256GB internal SSD is four times greater than the Switch OLED (64GB) and eight times that of the original Switch and Switch Lite (32GB). Nevertheless, the Switch 2’s improved capabilities will likely result in larger file sizes for new releases, which could prompt the need to boost your console’s storage with ultra-fast microSD Express Cards.
The Express format represents a modern innovation in the semiconductor sector that has not yet been widely embraced by other producers. The Nintendo Switch 2 will undoubtedly accelerate its acceptance among both developers and consumers rapidly. Officially sanctioned, Nintendo-branded cards from SanDisk are expected to debut this year, although preorders are currently unavailable.
Currently, the available licensed versions peak at 256GB, but you can discover 512GB and 1TB alternatives elsewhere if you’re looking to future-proof your Switch 2’s storage. We have compiled a concise overview and guide detailing the microSD Express options currently on the market from SanDisk, PNY, and Lexar, along with the forthcoming models from Samsung and GameStop.
All microSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2
- Samsung 256GB microSD Express Card (Nintendo Edition) — $60 | Launches June 5
- SanDisk 128GB microSD Express Card — $50 | Available
- SanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card — $72 | Available
- PNY 256GB microSD Express Card — $56 | Out of stock
- PNY 128GB microSD Express Card — Out of stock
- Lexar 1TB Play Pro microSD Express Card — $200 | Out of stock
- Lexar 512GB Play Pro microSD Express Card — $100 | Out of stock
- Lexar 256GB Play Pro microSD Express Card — $50 | Out of stock
- GameStop 1TB microSD Express Card — $190 | Launches June 5
- GameStop 512GB microSD Express Card — $100 | Launches June 5
- GameStop 256GB microSD Express Card — $55 | Launching June 5
For details on forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2 items, explore GameSpot’s compilations of Switch 2 accessories and games available for preorder.
Samsung microSD Express 256GB (Nintendo Edition)
$60 | Launching June 5
Samsung’s officially licensed microSD Express Card can achieve speeds up to 800MB/s.
The price tag of $60 is rather unexpected, given that branded microSD cards for gaming often come at higher prices compared to standard versions.
It’s still possible that Samsung’s standard 256GB microSD Express Card will be sold for less than $60, but this branded variant has a lower suggested retail price than the SanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card currently on the market.
As of May 16, the Samsung microSD Express is available at Best Buy and Target.
SanDisk microSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2
Available in 128GB and 256GB sizes
- SanDisk 128GB microSD Express Card — $50 | In stock
- SanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card — $72 | In stock
Currently, SanDisk produces 128GB and 256GB versions of its microSD Express Cards.
The Nintendo-themed variants of SanDisk’s microSD Express Cards are not yet online, leaving their pricing uncertain. Initially, we speculated that these branded products would cost more. The Nintendo editions for the original Switch are typically priced above non-branded versions. However, with the Switch 2’s pricing, this could vary, as illustrated by Samsung’s Super Mario-themed 256GB card.
At this time, it seems likely that SanDisk will introduce Nintendo-themed versions of its two microSD Express options. It remains…
It remains to be determined whether SanDisk cards with varying storage capacities will receive the Nintendo endorsement.
SanDisk microSD Express Cards are significantly more efficient compared to its Ultra and Extreme counterparts, which are widely favored for enhancing storage on the original Switch.
With Express technology, SanDisk’s cards deliver reading speeds reaching 880MB/s, writing speeds of 650MB/s, and sustained writing speeds of 210MB/s. In comparison, the SanDisk Ultra is rated at 150MB/s for reading, while the Extreme can achieve 190MB/s.
Express cards are fundamentally solid-state drives that can fit comfortably on your fingertip. Remarkably, this card even surpasses the typical performance of a SATA SSD.
GameStop’s microSD Express Cards
Offered in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB variants
GameStop offers a selection of accessories for Nintendo Switch 2, which includes microSD Express Cards that can achieve speeds of 800MB/s, as reported by GameStop.
However, GameStop’s Switch 2 accessories are not officially endorsed by Nintendo, and it is unclear which memory producer created these cards. Nonetheless, GameStop appears to be taking advantage of the rising demand over the last week, leading to higher prices for the three cards previously available at reasonable rates.
Currently, GameStop’s microSD Express Cards are priced higher than offerings from well-known brands, so it may not be the best choice unless no alternatives exist. For instance, the 256GB variant has increased from $50 to $70 before settling back to $55, which is disappointing when a SanDisk card is available for $60.
The 512GB variant began at $85 and has now risen to $100 (equivalent to Lexar’s pricing). Lastly, the 1TB option, originally priced at $150, now retails for $190—fairly close to Lexar’s rates.
When it comes to storage solutions, opting for recognized brands with solid reputations is generally wise; thus, considering a card of uncertain origin could be risky, especially with the notable price hikes.
GameStop’s Switch 2 accessories will be available on the same day as the console, June 5.
- GameStop 1TB microSD Express Card — $190 (was $150)
- GameStop 512GB microSD Express Card — $100 (was $85)
- GameStop 256GB microSD Express Card — $55 (was $50-$70)
